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Cycas guizhouensis

Cycas guizhouensis is a species of cycad native to southwestern China, specifically found in the Nanpan and Qingshui valleys across Guizhou, Yunnan, and Guangxi provinces. It is characterized by small wild populations, with fewer than 50 individuals per population, and was historically used as a famine food by local ethnic minorities.

Key Facts

  • Endemic to southwestern China.
  • Found in Guizhou, Yunnan, and Guangxi provinces.
  • Occurs in small wild populations, typically with fewer than 50 individuals.
  • Historically utilized as a famine food source.
  • Collected in Wantun Village, Xingyi, Guizhou.
Cycas guizhouensis
Scientific Name
Cycas guizhouensis
Family
Cycadaceae
Native Range

China

Uses

Famine Food

About Cycas guizhouensis

Cycas guizhouensis is a species of cycad that is endemic to southwestern China. It is a distinctive member of the cycad family, recognized for its specific geographic distribution and historical uses.

Distribution and Habitat

This species is primarily found in the Nanpan and Qingshui valleys, with its range extending across southwestern Guizhou province, including the area around Xingyi. It is also present in eastern Yunnan and northwestern Guangxi provinces, with notable populations in Xilin County and Leye County. During the Cultural Revolution, specimens were collected from Wantun Village in Xingyi, Guizhou.

Population Status and Human Use

Wild populations of Cycas guizhouensis are characterized by their small size, with fewer than 50 individuals typically found per population. Historically, this cycad played a role in the survival of local ethnic minorities, who utilized it as a famine food during periods of scarcity, particularly during the Cultural Revolution.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Cycas guizhouensis found?

Cycas guizhouensis is endemic to southwestern China. Its natural range includes the Nanpan and Qingshui valleys in Guizhou province, as well as eastern Yunnan and northwestern Guangxi provinces.

What are the wild populations of Cycas guizhouensis like?

Wild populations of Cycas guizhouensis are notably small. Typically, there are fewer than 50 individuals found within each population.

Has Cycas guizhouensis been used by humans?

Yes, Cycas guizhouensis was used as a famine food by local ethnic minorities in Guizhou province during the Cultural Revolution.

Which specific locations in China are known for Cycas guizhouensis?

In Guizhou province, specimens have been collected from Wantun Village in Xingyi. The species is also found in Xilin County and Leye County in northwestern Guangxi.